These air fryer chicken bites are juicy, flavorful, and ready in just 15 minutes.
With taco seasoning and olive oil, they’re perfectly crispy outside and tender inside—ideal for quick dinners or healthy meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
They’re ready fast—no marinating or long prep needed.
Healthier than pan-fried chicken thanks to the air fryer.
Crispy on the outside and juicy inside every time.
Customizable with any seasoning blend you like.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Boneless chicken breast for lean protein.
Olive oil for crisp texture and flavor.
Taco seasoning for bold flavor (Siete brand works well).
Kosher salt, only if your seasoning isn’t salty enough.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Cut chicken evenly for even cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if needed.
Shake the basket halfway through so all sides get golden.
Always check doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F).
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Bites
Step 1 – Preheat the air fryer
Set the air fryer to 390°F while you prep the chicken.
Step 2 – Cut the chicken
Cube chicken breast into 1.5-inch pieces.
Step 3 – Season the chicken
Toss cubes with olive oil and taco seasoning until fully coated.
Step 4 – Cook in the air fryer
Arrange chicken in a single layer and cook 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.
Step 5 – Check for doneness
Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
What to Serve Them With
Serve in tacos or burrito bowls.
Add to salads or grain bowls for easy meal prep.
Pair with roasted veggies or fries for a quick dinner.
Dip in ranch, salsa, or chipotle mayo for extra flavor.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap taco seasoning for Cajun, Italian, or BBQ rub.
Use chicken thighs for juicier bites.
Add a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.
Make it spicy with cayenne or chili powder.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
Freeze cooked bites up to 2 months—thaw before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw completely before cutting and seasoning.
Do I need oil for the air fryer?
Yes, just a small amount helps with crispiness and prevents sticking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes—just cook in batches so the basket isn’t crowded.
What’s the best seasoning?
Taco seasoning is great, but any spice blend works.
Final Thoughts
These air fryer chicken bites are the ultimate easy weeknight recipe.
Crispy, flavorful, and endlessly versatile—they’ll quickly become a staple.
Air Fryer Chicken Bites
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F.
- Cut chicken into 1.5-inch chunks.
- Toss chicken with oil and seasoning until well coated.
- Place in air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, until chicken reaches 165°F inside.
- Serve hot.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/air-fryer-chicken-bites/
Notes
- For variety, try other seasoning blends like Cajun, garlic herb, or lemon pepper.
- To add a smoky flavor, sprinkle on a bit of smoked paprika or chili powder.
- Perfect for meal prep—pair with salads, tacos, or grain bowls.
- Works great with chicken thighs too, which stay moist and flavorful.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.